Open Arms is a partnership project between VAR, Rotherfed, Laser Credit Union and Citizens Advice Bureau Rotherham, developed as the VCS response to the cost of living crisis.

Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and developed in partnership with RMBC, the project aimed to address immediate need whilst building community infrastructure for the longer term. The project began with a small grant round of funding for warm welcomes, enabling small VCS groups to deliver engagement activities that connected individuals to wider holistic support offers. Open Arms also delivers ten financial inclusion hubs across the borough, targeting areas with low levels of VCS activity, offering advice on low-cost loans, debt and energy saving measures. Open Arms also aims to stimulate community development, creating new community groups and volunteers to build resilience in communities.

For further info on delivery click here or to find out more contact david.plumtree@varotherham.org.uk.